The award was created to honor the late owner of the Pittsburgh Steelers, Art Rooney Sr.

"It is presented annually to an NFL player who best demonstrates the qualities of on-field sportsmanship, including fair play, respect for the game and opponents, and integrity in competition," per the NFL.

Arizona Cardinals wide receiver Larry Fitzgerald won the inaugural Rooney award in 2014. Former Colts running back Frank Gore won the award in 2016.

Each NFL team nominates one player for the award. A panel of NFL legends chooses the eight finalists from the list of 32. Current NFL players vote on the award winner.